When the U.S. Supreme Court handed down its decision in the 1954 case Brown v. Board of Education, the impact was felt across the nation. More than simply a document written in legal language, the ruling was a catalyst that sparked a movement: the civil rights movement.

In Brown, the court decided that the “separate but equal” doctrine was inherently unequal; it violated the 14th Amendment’s promise of “equal protection of the laws.” The country’s public schools, some of which made a practice of separating black students from white students, were officially required to desegregate. This inspired citizens around the nation to rally against all forms of institutionalized racial discrimination – from voting rights to equal access to public services to workplace rights.

In the decades that followed, significant progress was made, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 – a law banning all forms of racial discrimination – and the appointment of the nation’s first black Supreme Court justice, Thurgood Marshall, in 1967.

And the movement didn’t stop there. What are some contemporary civil rights issues?

Women’s Struggle for Equality

When women were granted the right to vote by the 19th Amendment in 1920, they weren’t suddenly elevated to a level playing field with men. Inequality and discrimination continued, particularly in the workplace. After Brown, the women’s movement turned to the 14th Amendment in its fight for equal rights. The Supreme Court case Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. in 2006 brought into focus the wage gap – the statistical 80 cents on each dollar that women are paid now compared to men. Although the Supreme Court ruled against Lilly Ledbetter (based on its interpretation of the statue of limitations to file a lawsuit), Congress later passed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, giving women more leeway to fight discriminatory pay.

Gay Rights, from ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ to Marriage

Discrimination based on sexual orientation is also prevalent today. Ironically, one of the laws viewed as discriminatory – the U.S. military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy – was intended as a progressive act. Signed into law by President Bill Clinton, it allowed gays to serve in the military. But they could do so only if they did not divulge their sexual orientation, and their commanding officers were prevented from asking about it. As it played out, the law was criticized for forcing gay military personnel to conceal their sexual identities, effectively living a lie to serve their country. In 2010, a federal judge ruled it violated the First Amendment right of free speech because gays could not openly discuss their sexual orientation and the 14th Amendment’s due process clause. This month, repeal of the policy took effect, but the battle for equality continues on other fronts. The right of same-sex couples to marry has been an intense debate for the last decade and a half. Advocates say the 14th Amendment’s equal protection clause guarantees gays and lesbians the right to marry. The Obama administration has said it will no longer enforce the Defense of Marriage Act – the 1996 law defining marriage as a legal union between a man and a woman – meaning the issue is entirely in the hands of the states. Some states, such as Vermont, Iowa, New York and Massachusetts, have passed laws allowing gay marriage. Other states allow civil unions for same-sex couples, and others still have passed outright bans – most recently California’s voter-approved referendum Proposition 8, which is expected to be heard by the Supreme Court.

Americans with Disabilities

The right to equal facilities and equal access for Americans with disabilities is not based in the Constitution but is a federal mandate. Before the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, it wasn’t required that public buildings, schools and workplaces have curb cut-outs and ramps for people in wheelchairs. A key problem with the ADA, however, was that many people had a very narrow view of “disabilities” – wheelchairs – and the law in practice wound up limiting the rights of other people it was trying to protect. In 2008, Congress passed and President George W. Bush signed the ADA Amendments Act, broadening the language of the law to make it clear that the word “disability” refers to any impairment, physical or mental, that limits the activities a person is able to participate in.

Immigration Rights

After the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the country became more suspicious of and resistant to immigrants. The issue of illegal immigration became a hot topic in the media, as well as in political debate, and states began passing tough laws targeting illegal immigrants. But even if someone is in the United States illegally, the Supreme Court ruled over a century ago in Yick Wo v. Hopkins that noncitizens are also covered by the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment.

What do you think?

What are the civil rights issues of today? What can the federal government do to better protect the rights of women? Should the federal government be involved in protecting the rights of gay citizens? Should the Americans with Disabilities Act be broadened further? Should illegal immigrants receive equal protection of our laws? Join the discussion!

Wes Arms
Oak Hills Terrace, Ms White
"Should the federal government be involved in protecting the rights of "X" citizens?" is an ill-based question. Every citizen deserves the same rights, and the same chance at happiness.

11/7/2016
charlotte

billybobjoe
lansdowne
we should all have equal rights

11/1/2016
germantown maryland

TeeJay
seneca valley
everyone should be treated with respect and treated equality no matter what.

10/16/2016
Illinois

Kaya
TJHS
There are faculty members who are sexist, racist., and homophobic. It makes me sad that, as a gay female that I am treated differently and am educated as if I am less important that straight white boys, and girls for that matter.

10/15/2016
Illinois

Kaya
TJHS
There are faculty members who are sexist, racist., and homophobic. It makes me sad that, as a gay female that I am treated differently and am educated as if I am less important that straight white boys, and girls for that matter.

10/14/2016
Sheridan, Arkansas

Cody
Sheridan High School
I want to lead my comment by stating that I am not racist. With that being said, when you look at the facts the reason that racial discrimination from police toward blacks is in the spotlight so much these days is because of the news media. The entire BlackLivesMatter movement started with the shooting of Micheal Brown in Ferguson, MO. The media reported as an innocent unarmed black teenager gunned down in cold blood by a police officer. What they failed to report is that Micheal Brown had just robbed a store, that he was uncooperative with the officer, or that he attacked the officer while he was still in his vehicle, then charged the officer trying to harm him. On the issue of gay marriage, my state of Arkansas had passed Amendment 3 to its Constitution on November 2, 2004 prohibiting same sex marriage and banning anything "identical or substantially similar to marital status" gay marriage. I have nothing against gay marriage, however the Supreme Court is overstepping its bounds by saying that banning same-sex marriage is unconstitutional when the US Constitution's 10th Amendment says everything not brought up as the federal government's responsibility should be reserved to the states. Again, the news media is at fault for the majority of the racial tensions, and people are uneducated in Federal government therefor letting politics affect the Supreme Court. If you want to debate me, email me @ codyclingan22@gmail.com

9/26/2016
Maumelle

Will
Academics Plus
Even today there are still renascences of people being racial, its very sad.

5/9/2016
Oak Park IL

CS
GBMS
People/police officers need to change the way they think of other people, no matter what there race or ethnicity are. Im writing a paper right now on how effective the Civil Rights Movements really where. Yet in 2014, Laquan McDonald was shot 16 times in 13 seconds. This is outrageous. We need to change this.

5/2/2016
Renton, Washington

Abrielle
Lindbergh Senior High School
The fact that we even have to discuss this is sad. America is a pretty messed up place. One of the topics that I wish was more elaborated upon, is the topic of immigration rights. It's a huge issue, especially with the presidential candidates. Not a whole lot of people payed attention till Donald Trump said he was gonna deport everyone illegally here. On top of that, one thing that wasn't mentioned period, is racism. It's a huge issue. Not just racism, discrimination as a whole. It's a huge problem, and it definitely should have been mentioned. I would have liked to see people opinions on the matter.

4/28/2016
Kearney,MO

Xander
Kearney Junior High
People should have equal rights

4/27/2016
virginia

Ben
Mr.French
All persons should be treated equally

4/26/2016
Ripley WV

Samantha
Ripley High
Equal rights can never truly be achieved as long as both sides are as polarized as they are now.

4/25/2016
Ripley WV

Samantha
Ripley High
Equal rights can never truly be achieved as long as both sides are as polarized as they are now.

4/13/2016
kanses

bob
warden
i think people should have equal rights

4/12/2016
newyork

tony
butts
women struggles need help to under stand

4/12/2016
Rockwall Tx

Sam jr
Utley middle school
I hate racism especially since I'm black so what we have a different skin color get over it

4/12/2016
rockwall

ben
utley
not cool kenzie,
think states should be able to choose if they allow gay marriages or not, because not everyone agrees with having gay marriages.

4/12/2016
new milford ct

M
Ms.olmsted
Gay rights should be allowed, its not you who is being effected.

4/11/2016
Rockwall/Texas

Kenzie
Utley Middle School
I think states should be able to choose if they allow gay marriages or not, because not everyone agrees with having gay marriages.

2/17/2016
Livermore/California

Grace Caufield
Carpenter/mendenhall
I think that women's rights are still an issue because they don't get paid enough as men currently, even though they do the same tasks. For every $1 a man makes, a women makes only 75 cents. A women should be able to make the same amount as a man. Also, some states still don't have gay marriage legal, and in the states that do, some people are still refusing gays their marriage license. People should be allowed to marry whoever they want, and maybe their happiness is being with their same-sex partner. Which is part of the Pursuit of Happiness, which is mentioned in the bill of rights.

1/21/2016
MN

Jae
Centennial Senior
All people deserve rights and equality even though they are gay, disabilities or something weird.

1/6/2016
Bentonville, AR

Kieran
Mrs. Webb/Ruth Hale Barker Middle School
I believe that abortion should be included on the list, and tell about how it denies the right to babies' life.

11/29/2015
S.C

Haley
Irmo middle
I think it is not fair how people juge some people who have disibilitys. they treat them as if their wierd or like lower class. and their not their just different from what you would think they would be or just not like everyone else. and they can't help it. this especily makes me mad because I have a brother with autism. And I hate when people look at him different or treat him not fairly.

10/18/2015
Tampa FL

Kat
Mrs.Washington/Jefferson High School
I believe that no matter what your stand point on gay marriage is you have no right to discriminate against the people living that lifestyle or the people that are arguing against it. Everyone has a different opinion and not everyone will agree with your point at any given time no matter what or who you are. It's time for everyone to grow up and have as much respect for each other as they would have for themselves and/or their loved ones.

9/14/2015
ca

kosta
na
it is my belief that the era of special interest approach to civil rights needs to change. I see way to often people loosing focus of what it is they are really doing when it comes to civil rights. the individual empowerment is misleading. anyone who is active In civil rights is active for all rights for all people....this fundamental truth is unfortunately overlooked to often. by identifying yourself other than a human being you automatically alienate yourself by labeling yourself. it is okay to focus on special interest but one must take care to understand the true path that they are on.....this means paying attention to what you say how you say it and when you say it. peace and goodwill to all people sounds pretty good to me.

6/20/2015
McCammon/Idaho

Camron
Marsh Valley High School
Equality is a big issue and one of the main reasons it comes up is due to religious beliefs. Homosexuality for instance never was in the bible until 1946 and it has no translation from greek or hebrew. Homosexuality is not even a word that was mentioned in the bible. You also have to take the context of when it was written. Such as the passage saying man shall not lie with another man as he does with a woman which was written during a time when they were trying to procreate and bring more people into the world. Now though we don't need to focus so much on procreation. Just saying.

5/20/2015
hurst/ texas

corina
coach mitchell / hurst jr high
more information please to saty connected to life now and its danger !!!!!

5/19/2015
Stanford/Illinois

Jaden Adams
Mr. Haak/Olympia High School
Everyone has the right to be treated equally. There is always issues in the civil rights. We're all human beings, we should be treated equal no different.

5/19/2015
Stanford, IL

Destiny
Mr. Haak/ Olympia High School
Today, society creates many issues. Most of the issues would be fixable if instead of being parochial, we could all be open minded to different races and the way other people chose to live their lives. There is still racism, there are homophobic people, and sexism is extremely common. Unless society decides to accept everyone as they are, these problems will still exist and will not get very much better. The federal government is doing a majority of things to protect the rights of women, but not enough. To help to better protect the rights of women, they could make sure that every man who disrespects women violently and or verbally are put in their place. The government should be involved in protecting the rights of gay citizens. Just because a citizen is gay does not mean they shouldn't have the same rights as everyone else. The Americans with Disabilities Act should be broadened. The federal government should expand on the specific places the facilities will be placed and make sure that specifically those with disabilities are the ones to utilize those facilities. Immigrants should be receiving equal protection of our laws. It's only fair though, that immigrants who are illegal should not be getting the same equal treatment. Some immigrants have worked very hard to get the right of citizenship and it would not at all be fair for illegal immigrants to have the same rights as legal immigrants.

5/19/2015
Stanford IL

mackenzie helfrich
Mr. Haak/ Olympia High School
Everyone is equal. We look different sound different but all together we are humans. I know women like us don't understand that men get payed more than us and they get more rights then us but someday everyone will get payed and more rights will be equal. Nobody in this world should never make fun of people cause they are gay. Gay is a factor of life you may say that you will never be gay but some things change in life and your minds change. Their is nothing wrong to be gay. Everyone should get a chance of what they want to be or they have different likes then most people. Disabilities people should be treated the same way. Its not their fault they were born like that and they get m ore help on things and get more things then must regular humans.

5/19/2015
Stanford IL

Bryce
Mr. Haak Olympia High School
I think everyone is made equal. There are a lot of civil right issues. They have went to far such as assault on the opposite race for no reason. If there wasn't any rights then there would be much a world left today.

5/19/2015
Stanford Illinois

Lexy Eller
Mr.Haak Olympia High School
Everyday somewhere someone deals with civil rights. Someone is judged everyday but one thing or another. No one will ever be as equal as another person. We all may not act, think, look, or speak the same but in God's eyes we are the same. The white men like to bully over the other races and act like they are in control. Even dating back to the first known white colony there was always discrimination against another race. Everyone is the same and everyone should be treated the same. There is no reason for anyone to be treated the way African Americans, Woman, Homosexuals, etc, are being treated.

5/19/2015
Illinois

Brittany
Mr. Haak
Everyone is made equal. Yes, we think and look different but we're all made the same. When you are to look past someone’s exterior, flesh, and genitals. You will find that males of any race have the same skeletal structure. Also, females share similar characteristics with men. Nevertheless, we all bleed the same blood. Just because you are of a different race or you're of a different gender doesn't mean you're any less of a person. Use facts not the bible, but if you do use the bible you cannot forget the passage, "Luke 6:37 'Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven;'. Also, "Matthew 7:1-2 'Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you'. Think a little deeper about what you're doing to the world and the future. Thank you.

5/19/2015
stanford / IL

austin carey
Mr. Haak / olympia
In Today society we still have trouble with people being racist aganest

5/19/2015
Stanford/Illinois

Nick S.
Mr Haak/Olympia High School
Today civil rights, from a law perspective, are great and the government doesnt have to do much as far as rights for blacks and other minorities. But from the society perspective it's still pretty bad, at least what they show you on TV is. Between Furgeson and Baltimore and the various other places where blacks have been rioting, their rights aren't exactly respected.

5/19/2015
Stanford

christopher hancock
Mike Hakk Olympia high school
The Gays have a right to marry anyone they want they can. the fact that people just think that they are different because of who they love is wrong because they are different.

5/19/2015
Stanford IL

mathew
mike haak / olympia
in the society,there are a lot of problems with discriminate. like with racist , gays, disables. like with gays the they don't have the right to get marry but in resent states , the racist is a problem in the states . if you you look Ferguson. a black men got killed by a white cop and know there is a big civil fight there.

5/19/2015
Stanford Illinois

ben
mike.haak
Theirs of things people judge like immagration rights such as political rebate targeting people covered by equal protection

5/19/2015
Stanford IL

Thomas
Mr. Haak Olympia High School
After reading this passage and seeing the different categories and what they had to say about getting different types of civil rights issued, its crazy how far people have brought them. Not just people but company's and corporations to. If these rights weren't set in this country could have been a whole different place.

5/19/2015
stanford

jaron
mike haak
in society today their are lots of problems with racial and discrimination towards other races and the opposite sex. the government should act on them quicker and put them in act. yes the government should be involved with the gay rights because it can save their lives. i think the disability act is alright it helps them a little. immigration should except all the laws yes. they are protected because if they are in our country they shold follow our laws.

5/19/2015
Illonois

Joseph
Mike Haak / Olympia High School
There are still people who beleive that equal rights aren't going
to be achived, i agree with them.
There will always be discrimination, but we can't allow it to get
outta hand. Because we have evolved as a society, and we need
to show that.

5/19/2015
Illonois

Joseph
Mike Haak / Olympia High School
There are still people who beleive that equal rights aren't going
to be achived, i agree with them.
There will always be discrimination, but we can't allow it to get
outta hand. Because we have evolved as a society, and we need
to show that.

5/18/2015
Ely, Nevada

Chris H.
White Pine High School
In our day society, we have hate groups all over the place, mainly in California. To me, the reason why we got so many hate groups around America is because they are just completely tired of the liberal people trying to change everything in the government every moment. some parties like the Neo-Nazis, The Black Separatist, KKK are mainly racist and will shoot a Jew, Black, or White person on spot. The group like the Neo-Confederate are against the regular government all the way. They just hate the American government. We could stop all of this hate group stuff if we just got America back to where we started. With harsh punishments, and settling problems like men. Not sueing or bail. America has gone soft, we need to take a stand! Get ride of the hate groups and get our America back.

5/15/2015
Dixon, California

Mathew
Ms. Katie
Why do women not have the same pay as men?

5/14/2015
Ely, NV

Lucy
White Pine High School
Should abortion be legal?
Abortion is when a potential mom becomes pregnant and doesn't want the child, so she prevents the life from coming into this world. In the United States there are only a few states that do not allow abortion. in my opinion i agree with the few states that don’t support this. In an article Bob Johnson wrote “ Should abortion be legal?” he states, “All people have a right to do to their own bodies what they will. However, the fetus, or unborn baby, is a distinct individual. Even though it resides inside its mother, it is a separate entity genetically.” I believe that if your actions brought a child into this world you need to be responsible for your actions and let the baby live. It is said that out of all pregnancies in the United States 4 in 10 are aborted. If you get pregnant you don't have to keep the baby. There are plenty of people that can't have kids or want more kids. If you put the child up for adoption then the baby has the chance to live a life. It has a chance to come into this world. Just because the mother doesn't want the child or doesn't think she can take care of the baby doesn't mean they can't have the baby and let it live. The baby’s life isn’t the mothers. Let the baby live, let it grow up strong and make a difference in the world.

5/14/2015
Ely NV

Tavix
white pine high school
‘’A North Carolina police officer is suing Starbucks for $50,000 after spilling a free cup of coffee on himself.’’
In the U.S.A I believe that businesses big or small should have the right to operate without fear of its customers suing them.
Stuff like this is the reason why people can't have nice things. It is sad to know that we live in a country where the second someone is harmed they look for a way to blame someone else and make a profit. I mean this man that is suing Starbucks is a police officer, I never thought that someone in a position of power would do something like this.
I believe that in a case such as this the man should not receive any money, clearly it was his own fault for spilling his coffee not starbucks. today people are always looking for handouts no one wants to work for any reason whatsoever. People in this world need to use some common sense if you buy a hot beverage do not assume its ok to drink check it first, don’t hurt yourself and then try to sue someone else for money. Civil rights constantly get abused over the smallest stuff, people should not constantly be suing others because they failed to use common sense and got hurt.Businesses should not be afraid of people like this man, they should not have to worry that even though they do their best to offer polite and helpful service that they will be sued over something that was not their fault.

5/13/2015
Ely/Nevada

DeShawn.B
White Pine High School
Our world is a pretty brutal world and police officers are right in the center in all of it. Why? Because they are the law and they are being accused for brutality against African Americans, and just because people think that they are racist. They really are not racist at all, just doing their job when criminals are just causing problems and false accusations. But the cop’s just doing their job in order to make the world a better place. Then they get accused of stuff like this and are getting discredited for all the greatness they do for everyone on a daily basis for a safe place. We have so many cops in the world and at least 45% of cops get accused of being racist or doing something brutal to an African American out of racism. This is not right and policemen don’t need that on their shoulders trying to go out in the real world to keep the world safe for everyone. This is kind of like the situation in Baltimore, were a black man was mistreated, but the thing is the four out of five were African American. So right there is just a situation where white police officers are being brutal to African Americans, But really there were more African Americans participating in on it rather than white Officers. I feel that African Americans criminals just try and use that against and for anything just to get out of trouble for the crime that they have made. The criminals need to just take responsibility for their actions and stop blaming policemen for their crimes, enough said.

5/13/2015
Ely, NV

Shawn S
White Pine High School
I agree that we should have funding that enables law enforcement to test for drugs on any person necessary. In my opinion, the state or other agencies should provide that funding. Further, I feel that use of welfare funds for drug testing is inappropriate because it implies that welfare recipients may do drugs.

5/13/2015
Ely, Nevada

jaymz s.
white pine high school
“Boom!” goes a gun that kills a life and saves another, the shots from the weapons that saved the people we love, they protect our nation, guns that cause pain and at the same time stops the pain inflicted on others. As American citizens we are born with Constitutional rights that our forefathers fought and died for. This Amendment to the Constitutions is set up so that citizens of our nation can protect themselves and protect our inalienable right that are stated in the Declaration of Independence; life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Owning and carrying a gun is not an inalienable right, it is a Constitutional right. Constitutional Amendments can be ratified and taken out legally and has happened before with other Constitutional Amendments. It cannot be decided by one person, the decision to keep or get rid of guns is up to the people/representatives that we, as citizens of the United States, put in office and what they decide is because of us the people. Some of us will not agree with the decision, but it is the law that we live under and if you do not agree with this then you have a right to speak out and tell your point of view, to let your voice be heard and to fight for your beliefs. So the questions I ask you as the reader are what do you think about gun control? The possibility of losing the right to own a gun? Are you for or against? And the largest question, is why do you believe that you are correct in the way you think about this civil right?

5/13/2015
Ely Nevada

Nathan L
White Pine High School
Have you ever seen or known somebody that is a part of gay marriages? The Supreme Court is dealing with challenges for four state exclusions of same-sex couples from their marriage law and other family law protections. The justices find relevant the original meaning of the Fourteenth Amendment. Many opponents of Marriage Equality for lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, and transgender persons think that the original meaning is hostile to such claims. States in 1868 would have to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, the term they adopted “equal protection” had an established meaning: the state cannot create a caste regime arbitrarily marking a whole class of worthy persons as outside the normal protections of the law. This original meaning has bite today that it would not have had in 1868. In the twentieth century, states created a terrifying anti-homosexual caste regime, whose deep norm was that gay persons are anti-family, forbidding gay marriages is not the right thing to do, everybody is allowed to have their own personal opinions. I understand that it may be a thing the naked eye is use to but it's the way people feel, people are allowed to do as they please as long as they abide by the law, it's not against any law. If a guy has feelings for another guy it should be acceptable. These people that choose to be apart of same sex marriages are not causing any issues and do no harm to this world.

5/13/2015
Ely, NV

Cody
White Pine High School
If you put in to play that American ethics and culture is against killing, then it would also be fair to say that killing unborn fetuses is morally wrong. Between 1973 and 2011 there were 53 million legal abortions performed in the U.S. Also, even though Catholic and Lutheran religions are against abortion, most of their members believe that abortion should be made legal. The choice of when and whether to have children is a woman's decision, but it is still considered murder. The killing of a human is wrong, even if that person has yet to be born. One of the ten commandments is “Thou shalt not kill”. Therefore, the killing of an unborn child is still against the word of God. A big part of being a part of society is taking responsibility for your actions, so then if you chose to have sexual intercorse then you should accept your fate and take responsibility for your actions. There are many circumstances where mothers think that they are doing the right thing for themselves and their child. For example if the mother knows that she won’t be able to provide for her child then she makes the decision to have the abortion. Many fail to look from the mother's perspective. Even though that may be the case at times, there is still the option of adoption.

5/13/2015
Ely, NV

Esmeralda S.
White Pine HIgh School
For many years immigration has been a big issue in the United States. Parents and children should have the right to be able to cross the border. No child is safe anywhere because children of immigrant parents not only have to take care of themselves and their siblings, but they also take care of the parents by sending money they earn to where the parents came from. Many families decide to immigrate to the United States to live a better life and they don’t feel safe in their own country. Parents get sent back to their countries leaving their children behind. It’s not fair that Immigrants get insulted by others by saying that life here in the United States is not the place for an immigrant and that they need to go back to where they came from. They also get told that they should go get their green card or get a visa to be in the United States. No one knows the true reason why someone that is an immigrant feels the need to be safe in a better environment, sometimes families want to provide a better life to their children and leave their country. I believe that before you start judging someone for coming to the United State from a different country you can try to understand their reasons.

5/13/2015
Ely/Nv

Mikalyn
White Pine High School
Abortion
Did you know out of all pregnancies in the United States, that 4 in 10 are aborted? Personally, I think that abortion should be illegal. If you get pregnant when you aren’t ready there are always other options like adoption. Thirty-five percent of pregnant teenagers get abortions. A lot of the reasons teens or anyone get abortions is because they can’t provide a good life and support their child, but there are many couples that aren’t able to get pregnant and would love to adopt. I don’t feel just because females or couples are not ready to have a baby that they should get an abortion and take their child’s life. Some teens feel that they are not ready to have a child so they get an abortion to avoid having to give up school or their future until they can financially be ready to have a family. However let’s decrease the number of abortions each year.

5/13/2015
ELY NV

justin
white pine
Could you imagine owning a Winchester model 1886, a very rare gun? The right to own guns is a problem in the society today. I understand that there are people in the government that think guns should be illegal because of the shootings that have taken place already. If only they could look past that and see that guns are more than people think they are.They are what helps keep people from attacking our families and our freedom that we get here in America. Many people have firearms in their households today, don't you think that they deserve what they have spent their time and money on? So help me help others keep their right to bare arms.

5/13/2015
Ely/Nevada

Devon Skott Riding
White Pine High School
Imagine being told that all the time and money you used to become a police officer after graduating from the academy that you are not trustworthy, and have to wear a body camera because a black man was shot and killed for attacking a fellow officer causing riots.
Police should not have to have body cameras. Officers are out there risking their life for us every day. Telling them that we do not trust them because of actions of other officers or people that fight the cops causing people to hurt themselves. When people start riots because a cop was just doing their jobs. Officers just do what their superior has told them to do yet the officer will still be punished with either losing their job or losing their freedom. There are good cops and there are corrupt cops but with every batch of apples there are a few that are a few that are dirty and full of bugs. as seen in this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JA-piiDW4jU).In this video a police officer is abusing his power with a uber driver. Some people do not know their rights and will let a cop search their person, car, and even their house without a warrant do so.

5/13/2015
Ely,NV

Alex L.
White Pine High School
I think before anyone could be issued a gun, they should undergo a series of tests. These tests should include: mental stability and safety knowledge of firearms. In addressing the applicant's mental stability, I would like to see a competent questionnaire created. Maybe it could be like a psychological mini-exam. Questions ask about any violent activity in the past, or suicidal inclinations might be asked. The second issue on firearm safety could also have a questionnaire that coincides with the type of firearm about to be purchased. If the purchaser cannot pass the questions, they probably don't know enough about the firearm to safely use it. I do understand some people want to go and buy a gun and just use it, and I am one of those people but this testing will just reduce the amount of homicidal or suicidal people. Note that police will be doing the same thing as well.

5/12/2015
Ely,Nevada

Taylor A
White Pine High School
“A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.” I believe that any American citizen should have the right to bear arms, if it is men or women. I also believe that people don’t own guns just for the heck of it, I think that they have reasons. Some people own guns for hunting, target shooting or for protection. I was raised my whole life around guns and now I have the experience to hunt with my family. I have hunted for 4 years and I helped my family with their hunt since I was 10; hunting is my life. Even though guns are involved in violence I believe that we should still have them so our family feels protected and safe. To discriminate against us having guns isn’t fair because this is how I hunt and this is how I was raised.

5/12/2015
Ely/Nevada

Skye
White Pine High School
It’s difficult for some to believe at one time African Americans had to use separate bathrooms, eat at different restaurants and go to different schools to receive their education. Now, the current president of the U.S.A. is Mr. Barack Obama, and he is African American. There are people who may think that since Mr. Obama is African American, and is indeed the president, that racism is no longer a problem. That is not true, although racism isn’t as much of an issue as it was years ago. Racism is still a problem today. Currently in the U.S.A. there have been several situations involving racism, such as one, the riot in Baltimore over the mysterious death of an African American after suffering from multiple wounds while in custody of the Baltimore police. Most people that are considered racist, only judge others from the individual’s skin color. People shouldn’t judge off of skin color, what’s most important is what’s on the inside. African Americans are part of what built the country. The struggles America went through involving slavery and inequality made the country stronger because new laws were passed to give African Americans the same rights as White people. Personally, I find it unbelievable people are still so racist towards others of different skin color.Not only African Americans, but other races as well. I’m against racism and find it to be unnecessary and pointless. African Americans are part of the country and should be treated with the respect anyone else would wish to be treated with.

5/12/2015
Ely Nevada

Jessica. W
White Pine High School
Imagine a world where homosexuality is natural, that same sex relationships aren’t frowned upon and heterosexuality is a sin. You’re a hetero living in a homo world, imagine how hard it is to find love or other heteros, how hard it is to fit in, how you have to fake being gay because you don’t want to dishonor your family. Think of how alone you are.
Now take that feeling and relate it to every homosexual person in the world today. Think of how almost every heterosexual person has made homosexuals feel because heterosexuals don’t understand what it’s like to be attracted to the same sex or because it’s in the Bible that man shall not lay with man. But the Bible also says that divorce is a sin and no one is against that. If a girl has short hair and likes guy things or dresses like a guy she is judged as gay. If a guy has a high pitched voice or doesn't act like the normal boy/man and is a bit effeminate he is also judged as gay.
There are a lot of homosexual people in the world who are afraid to open up or “come out of the closet” because of what everyone else will say about them or to them. Homosexuals go through the same hardships as heterosexuals. We go through break ups and being cheated on. We are all humans, we all eat and drink and do the same stuff. We all laugh at the same jokes. We all have jobs and lives. It’s not a choice to be attracted to the opposite sex, we didn’t just wake up one day saying oh I’m going to be gay. Love is sought out with the heart, not with the eyes.
Homophobia is a real experience and is a rational feeling, some may have the fear that the human population will die off because of same sex relations, but not everyone is even remotely close to being gay. Not all homosexuals will hit on you either. God loves all of his children that’s what I was taught as a kid so why can’t he love homos?

5/12/2015
Ely, Nevada

Kadi F.
White Pine High School
Little children are always looking, learning from what they see, starting a new train of thought, question is born that they’ll be asking their parents, and as their parent you are shocked at what they so innocently ask. The world is changing and the laws of the land are changing. One specifically that I would like to bring up is same-sex marriage. I hear on the radio constantly of gay rights, and same-sex marriage. It blows my mind. People who are okay and support these new ideas usually say that it’s what they want, let them marry who they want, let them love who they want. But those who don’t agree with these new laws are probably the ones who believe that marriage should be between a man and a woman, and when those couple’s children see two guys holding hands or kissing they start to think “Well why are those guys holding hands? Is that okay?” Then at a young age the children learn that it’s something that their parents don’t allow or support, but then a chunk of the world is saying “Yes, this is okay and accepted.” An ongoing battle is continually being argued over. I just have one question, why would someone want to abandon the idea that the family is the most important thing, where children have a mother and a father to care for them? Sure gays and lesbians could adopt, but I feel that it wouldn’t be the same. Marriage should stay within the bonds of a man and a women, that’s what I believe.

5/12/2015
Ely, Nevada

Kayla J.
White Pine HS
“The right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” Our Second Amendment states that we can keep, and use our firearms. As a hunter and gun owner, I highly value this right. Many people have tried to change the Second Amendment, only to fail. Changing one right, could change the whole Bill of Rights. Having no gun control could mean anyone can go around and shoot things, animals, or even worse, people. Or, there could be no guns at all, and we couldn’t defend ourselves. Hunting for example, is a huge part in my community. If we had no gun rights or control over them, then we couldn’t hunt. Some people may live on the venison alone. So taking away the Second Amendment can be catastrophic. I can see where some people are coming from trying to get rid of guns, but guns don’t kill people, the people behind the guns kill people.

5/12/2015
Ely, Nevada

Ashia M.
White Pine High School
Social media has made the statement that all black people are against white cops. Not only are different races being attacked by cops, but cops are also getting attacked too. When the trials began about a cop that killed a victim that was black, people weren’t just judging that one cop, they were judging all cops. No one, I mean no one, is perfect; we are all equal. We have a right to speak about how we feel and show tolerance towards someone hating or discriminating against something we believe is wrong towards a culture. A cop is a human-being that is just doing their job. As much as our actions cost us, everyone including cops are wrong, too. We all should take responsibility for the wrong we all have done. It’s about how we react, our behaviors, it isn’t about our skin color or how was appear to another person.

5/11/2015
Ely, Nevada

Maddi D.
White Pine High School
Look around yourself at the people you grew up with and all of your acquaintances in everyday life. Consider the fact that the majority of people around you have secrets, a part of them that only a limited amount of others may know. Not everyone around you is conscious of the personal things that happen in your everyday life, nor you to them. Now, out of all the people that you see as you walk down the street, in school, or even in the grocery store perhaps, there is probably a small amount of homosexuals blended in with those groups of people. Whether they have embraced their true self or are still skeptical of other people’s judgements, they are still an equal part of society, doing everyday things just as you are. Not everyone is as accepting of homosexuals, and my intention in this post is not to sway you in either direction, but to help you become more aware of how society is comprised these days and that your actions may reflect negatively onto someone else whether you may realize it or not. I don’t want to use the word “different,” although, society has stereotyped homosexuality as being just that, perhaps because the majority of society is built up of older generations in which may not be used to that lifestyle. Being gay comes with many pros in which are, in most cases, outweighed by the cons; people are coming out into society in fear of being “different,” in fear of judgement and humiliation. Who are we to downgrade part of society based on personal choices in life, where people come from, or what they stand for? Everyone has their differences and struggles in life; we should be able to brush judgements and personal views aside in order to step up and put others before ourselves.

5/11/2015
Ely NV

AJ
White Pine high school
The events in New York, Missouri, and Baltimore in the last few months are tragic. However, the saddest part is that we as a nation have been misinformed by certain media and public figures. Resisting arrest is an illegal behavior. Assaulting a police officer is against the law. Why is it acceptable for an African American to assault a police officer, but not acceptable for the police officer to defend himself? Why is it racist for a white man to kill an African American, but not racist for an African American to kill a white man? Why do people blame the police for another person who can’t follow the law? If someone is man enough to do the crime then they should be man enough to receive the punishment. Maybe parents should teach their kids respect instead of teaching them to be thugs because that's all this problem is, people being thugs. Statics show that more white people are killed by police than African Americans. Explain how that is racism, explain how Baltimore is racism when four out of the five police officers were also African American. So if you are against the police who are trying to do their job, the next time you need one don’t call one for help.

5/11/2015
Ely, Nevada

Ashlyn H.
White Pine High School
Imagine being a 30 year old woman and not being able to have children while an irresponsible 14 year old girl got pregnant after only one night. I believe that here in America abortion is taking the easy way out of a serious situation. I think it is unfair that women abort their children while others are unable to have them. Don’t you think adoption is a better answer? It helps both sides, the unwanted pregnancy is now giving the less fortunate couples a chance to become a parents. Each year their is about 300,000 teenagers that abort their child, this is one third of America's total abortions. It is believed that abortion is the answer for many women who can’t afford to have children because of work, school and other responsibilities. Some might not want to be a single parent, might not be mature enough, might be scared to tell their parents or they even might be afraid of people knowing that they had sex. Join me in encouraging people to take responsibility of their actions by putting the unwanted child up for adoption so that they are wanted into a loving family.

5/7/2015
Ely, Nevada

Titus
White Pine High School
In the USA everybody can have the religion he or she wants to have. So why do some states still ban gay marriage? Thirteen states in the US still ban gay marriage. Those states also don’t recognize the marriage of couples that were married in a state that allows it. But actually they should, because the constitution says, “full faith and credit to the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of every other state.” This suggests that same sex marriages performed legally in one state should be valid in others. Some people say that God or the Bible don’t support gay marriage, but that argument is invalid, because in the United States of America everybody can choose their own religion. Join me in starting conversations with officials for these deserving same sex couples.

5/6/2015
Ely, Nevada

Harrison
White Pine HS
Personally, I usually find it hard to feel offense over pointless and hurtful words that someone says to me. But without a doubt, racist or sexist comments seem to push my buttons wholeheartedly. I find it upsetting that some of our fellow earth dwellers feel the need to to cut one another down in that way. Quite truthfully, such demeaning and disheartening comments or slurs are never needed. Is it so hard to enlighten others on how racism is fundamentally flawed and awful? It may be hard for me to understand, but honestly, racism seems to be nonsensical, and fruitless. For some, it may seem reasonable to fear others who are different, possibly involving one’s comfort zone. In my opinion, that’s incorrect thinking. As for sexism, doesn’t science tell us that the only true noticeable differences between males and females are our body functions? Even that difference shouldn’t allow or enable anyone to discriminate. Albeit, each one of us do house different personalities inside. But we all contain a conscience, which should drive us to do good for ourselves, and to all others.

Emily
Mr.Orozco
I don't think that we should allow same gender marriage becasue if the the world was filled with just guys how would the reproduce to contine the population. Answer: they wouldn't they would die off. same thing would happen with a world filled with women.

4/29/2015
melbourne

john
foster
it does not seem as hard as it was back in the 1960 civil rights act

4/27/2015
Glen Gardner/New Jersey

Joey
Mrs. Bishoff/ Voorhees
I think the problem with civil rights is that people in this world are not loving and caring. How can you say one group of people is above another. It makes no sense

4/23/2015
Lancaster/Pennsylvania

Raeghyn
Hopkins/PaCyber
People with disabilities are still people, so they should be treated like normal people. My two sisters has disabilities, so I know what it is like to be judged for being different. It is the same with being a different color/race. THEY`RE PEOPLE: TREAT THEM LIKE YOU WOULD ANYONE ELSE!!!

4/21/2015
Bowling Green, KY

Monica Valencia
Mrs.Clark/ Bowling Green High School
Todays civil right issues includes not giving people of different sexuality the same rights as those that are straight. For example, not giving them the right to marry in most states. The government can regulate oppurtunities for women.Yes, because they are defenseless compared to the entire u.s population. No, it is good as is and should not be changed any further. It depends on where they're from and their situation.

4/21/2015
Bowling Green, KY

Majlinda Mirena
Mrs. Clark/Bowling Green High School
Civil rights issues today include discrimination when it comes to voting rights, economic opportunities, education, and poverty. For example, those who are in a lower class sometimes aren't able to find a job that will help them provide for the essential needs to properly raise their family because of discrimination. I think the federal government can make people more aware of the issue, so that others will be on board when it comes to doing a better job at protecting the rights of women. The federal government should be involved in protecting the rights of gay citizens because they're still human and it's the right thing to do when they are protecting the rights of citizens. The Americans with Disabilities Act should be broadened further since many people with disabilities are discriminated in getting jobs and that isn't a way to live. The illegal immigrants that have don't have a criminal record should receive equal protection because they are humans as well.

4/21/2015
Bowling Green, KY

Jeton Ademi
Mrs.Clark/ Bowling Green High School
Today there are many Civil Rights that are not met. There are racists, sexists, and many more. They can pass more laws and more strict laws to enforce the equal rights women should have. I feel like the government can protect gay laws, but shouldn't have a say in them, like who can and can't get married. I feel like today we have a pretty good system with the Disability Act and it ensures enough safety and equality to them. I feel that illegal immigrants should have the opportunity to become citizens and hard workers of this country, but yes after that they should receive equal protection, they're still humans.

4/21/2015
Bowling Green/Kentucky

Jacie
Clark/Bowling Green High school
i think a person should be able to love who ever they want. if the person is the same sex then so be it. if they are different then that's cool too. it is up to them if they love someone they cannot be told who they can love.

4/21/2015
bowling green ky

joseph f
mrs. clark bowling green highschool
People with disablities are like normal people but just need a little more help to move around. When making bills the people there trying to help should always be in mind.

4/15/2015
idaho

Adrianna Musa
Twin Falls High School
gays are equal to lesbiens but not straights

4/2/2015
Twin Falls, Idaho

Adrianna Muse
Twin Falls High School
Gays can get marriage, but I will not support them. I was born in a Religious home. So i don't care do as you will just don't bug me with it.

3/31/2015
Iowa

JackMehoff
FDSH
I dont like discrimination, but it will never go away and neither racism.

3/23/2015
New Jersey

Minjoo
Robert R. Lazar Middle School
WOW... Those are lot of civil rights issues
America! YAY AMERICA!!
serisouly those are a lot of issues!

3/23/2015
connecticut

zara
mr.kirste
if everyone was created equally, then why are some of us discriminated against??? why is it illegal in some states for gays to be married? why do women only make 88 cents when men make 1 dollar? how is this fair in any way???!!!

3/20/2015
Wisconsin

Tanisha
Holmen
People need to stop discriminating people just because they are different, If someone is different than you, you need to GET OVER IT

3/13/2015
Michigan

Lexi
keppen
Everyone deserves there civil right this is unfair FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS!!!!

3/11/2015
Zachary,Louisiana

Kahleel
Northwestern Middle School
Everyone should have equal rights it's not fair for someone to have more rights than you!!

3/6/2015
Allendale Sc

Shannon
Allendale-Fairfax High
im not gay but i think its fair that they should be able to get married

3/5/2015
Savannah,Georgia

Jeremiah
Ms keion/Stem Academy
Gay right is not right but let people do what they do

3/5/2015
Savannah

Allie
STEM Academy@Bartlet
LET GAY PEOPLE MARRY????

3/5/2015
Savannah,Georgia

Jeremiah
Ms keion/Stem Academy
Gay right is not right but let people do what they do

3/5/2015
Savannah, GA

Clayton
STEM Academy at Bartlett
I think Immigration Rights is a huge problem.

3/5/2015
Savannah

Arianna
The stem Academy
I think the the gay rights is a big issue because people shouldn't be judged on who they like

3/5/2015
Georgia

Deanna
STEM Academy
Gays should be able to get married and not be judged about it. My friend is in a gay relationship and she is judged a little but she doesn't let it affect her.

3/4/2015
Alabama

Ariana
STEM Academy
I think gay rights is just people thinking that it is bad but it is really not .my friend she has a gay relationship and people in our school and people don't care just like what if you have a gay relationship would you want people to be treating you that way so why do you treat people like that

3/3/2015
Twin Falls, ID

Sara
Twin Falls High School
Taking away human rights goes from being an "opinion" to dehumanizing people. It is ridiculous to see how many people are against equality for all. I agree with Mejrima; all people are equal and if you are a human being you deserve rights. People are claiming that the bible says no but as Mejrima said, things are different now. I want everyone that is against it to think about how same sex marriage effects you that doesn't involve religion. The bible was written by people thousands of years ago. Times have changed. And if you believe in god, god isn't supposed to hate anyone - that's kind of his whole thing. We are all humans and are supposed to have civil rights and freedom of speech. And most of these people haven't even developed their opinions on their own. That's what they were taught by their parents and their religion and they are too scared to branch outside of what they are taught.

3/3/2015
Twin Falls, ID

Mejrima
Twin Falls High School
I am very outraged as I look through all these ignorant comments. Outraged to hear that women shouldn't have equal rights. Outraged to hear that gays shouldn't be protected and allowed to show their affection to each other. Outraged to know that racism is ok to some people. Civil rights is defined as, the rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality. Civil rights are basically human rights. As long as you are a living human being, you deserve to have human rights. You deserve to live how you want to and choose what you want. You deserve to be equal. The bible has no say in this. The bible was written by humans thousands of years ago and the time era has changed. Your god may not approve of it but think for yourself. The bible allows human sacrifice and the degrading of women. If you don't support that then don't say you don't support gays because of your religion.
Most of the children that commented in the discussion posts have no idea what they are talking about. Its sad to see the world so negative about each other. We as human beings all deserve human rights. Just because you don't like it or support it, it doesn't mean you can dehumanize half the population.

2/27/2015
IL

Lauren
Collinsville Middle School
Gay people were born the same way as straight people.

2/20/2015
Oklahoma

Dylan
Sequoyah High School
Gay people are human beings just like everyone else. So why cant they have equal rights like the rest of us.

2/11/2015
north carolina

iyonna
ms hanly
Let gay people get married

2/4/2015
Chico, CA

Harley
Burton PVHS
Woman deserve entirely equal pay and collages need to stop defending men who raped woman to defend their "good name" because of the situation. Rape is rape.

2/4/2015
California

kc
Ms Burton, PVHS
Men are always favored for certain jobs because employers think that only men can properly do that job.

2/4/2015
Califonia

KB
Ms.B, PVHS
additional civil rights issues of today are judging people on the color of their skin. The federal government can treat women as fair as men to better protect the rights of women. The federal government should protect the rights of gay citizens cause it would help make other people think of the rights for gay citizens.

2/4/2015
Chico California

Evan Oelrichs
Mrs. Burton/ Pleasant Valley highschool
1. The racial steriotypes and racial tension between blacks and whites.
2. On job applications do not list color or gender.
3. Yes I believe that their should be equality for all no matter their sexual orientation.
4.I do not know enough about the issue to make an educated opinion, be however I do think broadening it would be helpful.
5. I do not believe that they should, because they don't participate in the workforce as much.

2/4/2015
Chico, CA

Octavia Wilkins
Ms. Burton/PVHS
Gay rights and People with disabilities. protect the rights of women by paying them equally the way you do for men. give them jobs that you wouldn't normally give to them. treat them like they're men if that's how they want to be treated.

2/4/2015
Californa

JTE
Ms.B, PVHS
I think immigrants should get the same equal rights. They are still people

2/4/2015
chico california

liliana granados
beth burton, pleasant valley
What are the additional civil rights issues of today?
Women struggle for equality, gay rights, Americans with disabilities, immigration rights
What can the federal government do to better protect the rights of women?
They shouldnt check for the gender when you vote because if we are all "equal" then it shouldnt matter.
Should the federal government be involved in protecting the rights of gay citizens? Why or why not?
Yes, they should be involved because every human being has the right to happiness. Its in our amendment.
Should the Americans with disabilities act be broadened further? Why or why not?
I think that the disabilities act should be kept as it is because there is already support for them and a law about the ramps.
Should illegal immigrants receive equal protection of our laws? Why or why not?
Yes i think that they should. Just because there were born in a different place, doesnt mean that they dont deserve the same rights as everybody else that lives in the same world. And Americans have that right.

2/4/2015
California

JJM
Ms.B, PVHS
Everyone should have equal rights. :P

2/4/2015
california

malieahrose w
ms. b, pvhs
The federal government can fully support the women rights. I think the federal government should protect the rights the rights of gay citizens because they should have the choice to do whatever they want. I think immigrants should have equal protection because if they came to the Usa or anywhere else, they oblivously don't want to be where they were before

2/4/2015
chico

kl
Mrs. Burton
Everyone should be treated by the way they treat other people. Its not our life to control others life by not giving them rights to do whatever they want. Well, not to do bad thing but let them make history about them self. The color skin doesn't matter. What matter is what you do and be a good role model so everyone can follow tour steps. Everyone have the right do marry the same sex as them or not. That's what the want and feel. Everyone just wanted to be happy, and live a life without no one judging them and be with whoever.

2/4/2015
chico california

shelby
Mrs. Burton pvhs
racial discrimination specifically the Ferguson case is a civil rights issue. Also, gun control is a big problem too for a lot of people. women deserve more rights, they need equality with man even though its said in the constitution that we are equal not all people follow that. we have gay rights because of the people but if the gov. didnt pass it there would be no rights for gays. people with disabliities should have help with there life more and get more support provided so they can maintain a happy life like everyone deserves. i think immigrants should be protected illegal or not in the U.S. because if they made it from a bad place to the U.S. then they dont deserve to be sent back

2/4/2015
Chico, CA

Kaitlyn
Ms. Burton/PVHS
Racial Discrimination is still a civil rights issue of today
Equal wages, equal chances should be involved in protecting the rights of women
The federal government should be involved in protecting the rights of gay citizens because they can make laws to help them to get married to the people they want to.
The American with Disabilities Act should be broadened because some people look down on people with disabilities like they're not as good as them.
Certain illegal immigrants should receive equal protection of our laws because some immigrants are good people and some are bad.

2/4/2015
chico, ca

kendall
Ms. Burton / pvhs
racial discrimination specifically the ferguson case
more woman in office
yes, because without the federal goverment there wouldnt be any rights for gays
yes, because they deserve the same rights as people without disablilties
yes they should because they arent all terrorists and they are just people ike us

2/4/2015
California

CMS
Ms.B, PVHS
I think that China which is a communist country has similar civil rights issues because of how their government system is. The people there have no real rights their.

2/4/2015
California

RM
Ms. B/PVHS
I think the Americans with Disabilities Act is fair enough with the institution of ramps and curb cut outs in public areas and should not be taken any further.

2/4/2015
Chico,California

A W
Ms. Burton, PVHS
1. Racial discrimination
2. Paying equal wages and getting equal chances
3. Yes,because they are equal but they just believe in different things
4. Yes, because they are people but just born differently
5. I don't know because some people are good and then some people are bad like terrorists

2/4/2015
California

coral
Ms. Burton Plesant Valley HIgh School
Gays in the united states should have the same rights as straight people because they are all ligal citizens in the us and they are legal. Americans with disabilities shouldn't get any more attention because there is nothing else we can really do to help them in public places other then what we have already done to help make there lives easier. Illegal immigrants shouldn't have the same laws as us because they are here illegally and shouldn't have the same rights as actual citizens.

2/4/2015
California

CMS
Ms.B, PVHS
What other places besides U.S.A have the same issues or similar issues as they had back then?

2/4/2015
Chico CA

Shon
Ms Burton PVHS
Very touching i hope that this beomes a non issue in the future we can do it america.

2/4/2015
California

Amy Elizabeth
Ms. Burton PVHS
They can pass more laws against discriminating women. They should get paid the same amount as men, also, they should make the jobs that are for "men" the same jobs for both genders. And just everything thats for one gender or the other, for both genders.

2/4/2015
California

RM
Ms.B, PVHS
i honestly have no idea

2/4/2015
California

LA
Ms. B, PVHS
I don't think that illegal immigrants should have equal protection of our laws because they aren't legal immigrants and so they shouldn't have the same protection that a legal american has. If they want equal rights they would need to become a legal americans

1/18/2015
Ambarvale, New South Wales

Bethany
Thomas Reddall High School
I think the simple fact that here in Australia, single mother's rights are becoming more and more ignored. They are getting less financial support from the government and their health and medical benefits are not taken care of. These are women with no one but themselves and extended family to support them and their children. What ever happened to being a Good Samaritan and lending a helping hand. The government seems to just turn a blind eye to the fact that these women are struggling to raise their children right, earn money and give their children a life they deserve. Many single mother's a homeless or living in government houses because they just don't have the financial support they need.

1/15/2015
Oklahpma

Natasha
Yukon high
I agree with the gay rights and as of a few days ago it is legal here.

1/6/2015
Missoula

Lexi
Teacbsg
Seriously, it doesn't matter if whether or not if your Bi or Gay or Whatever, be who you want, its your life.

1/6/2015
Maine

Anna
NHS
What does it matter whether the bible says homosexual relationships are ok or not? I mean it was written like 3,000 years ago. Things have clearly changed since then, don't rely on a book to tell you what's right or what's wrong.

Gunnar
Weinberg/North Medford high school
why do people have to do this to other people we are all brothers and sisters so why do we have to do this to are brothers and sisters so that is my comment.

12/19/2014
Warwick

Tommy
Pilgrim High School
To me I think that we should not have a women president because i feel like that when she is on her period all she would do is bomb a country

12/10/2014
ohio/ubana

madison
forson/ujh
all people deserve a good education.

11/20/2014
Santa Monica

Ian
SAMOHI
Everyone needs to have equal education or else there is no education!!!!!!!!!!!!!

11/19/2014
sc

Kim
woodland
Everyone is created equal no matter the skin color or orientation. If you don't like it, too bad. We're all human so we should have all the same rights. Gays and lesbians still bleed the same red blood as everyone else.

10/30/2014
Faytteville

Leyan
Mrs. Stewart/owl creek
Everyone life should be fair

10/29/2014
Missouri

Jordan
Harrisonville
People say oh it's against my religion. so then you(the person) don't do it. Don't force your religious beliefs on others. That's is why we came to this country to escape forced upon religion.

10/29/2014
Fayetteville Arkansas

Deanna
Firmin/owlcreek
I think. People should have the right to choose who they love, if some one wants to love the same sex than they they should have the right to choose

10/29/2014
Fayetteville Arkansas

Deanna
Firmin/owlcreek
I think. People should have the right to choose who they love, if some one wants to love the same sex than they they should have the right to choose

10/29/2014
Fayettville

Dejha Showrs
firman
How come there's so many people saying that people shouldn't judge others but they don't do much about it.

10/28/2014
Fayettevillie

Eli
Firmin
Women deserve the same rights as men come on

10/28/2014
Fayetteville,Arkansas

Deanna
Firmin/owlcreek
Why should it matter what color u are if every body bleeds the same color.

10/28/2014
Fayetteville/Arkansas

Dejha
Owlcreek/Prothero
It does not matter if a person is gay, a woman, or black. we are all people

7/4/2014
Idaho

Megan
Orofino Jr. Sr. High School
To all of you who are against gays, lesbians, and what not. You need to understand that it is also in the bible to forgive. We should have the ability to love whom ever we choose. If the choice gets us damned to the underworld then so be it. I personally feel like the United States is to uptight about these this to begin with. I have seen far superior homosexual parent then heterosexual parents, and frankly its none of your business, or mine, to judge some one on who they love.

5/13/2014
Springfield, MO

KK Vantas
Central High School
To David Lathrop and anyone else concerned with the opinion presented by Miranda:
I understand what you are saying. Yes, homosexuality is presented as a sin in the bible. However, this is not a viable reason to restrict gay rights in America because of the due process of law and the first and fourteenth amendments, which establish a separation of church and state. No laws should be made on the basis of religion because of this.
If you can find a reason that gay marriage or gay rights in general should not be legal that is not based on religion, feel free to state that.

5/6/2014
suprise arizona

tudy
mr.mendez parkveiw elementry
i think that if you are born in America you should be equal, but we are not equal men get paid more than women we cant marry who we want people who are different get treated poorly it isn't fair. last time i checked the constitution said that all men are equal but we aren't no one is equal anymore the government spends are taxes on unwanted wars are economy is going to hell. immigration rights is a big issue we should give them rights as long as they have been here for sometime. but hey im just an 8th grader from Arizona.

5/3/2014
Sandy, UT

David Lathrop
Intermountain Christian High
To Miranda,
It is in the Bible. In Leviticus 18: 22, it states that "you shall not lie with a male as with a women, it is an abomination." This is openly stating that homosexuality is morally wrong in God's eyes. Also, if you are looking at the way that our bodies are arranged to have kids, men and women are made so that they will come together and have kids. Kinda obvious that men cant have kids with other men.

4/29/2014
Duncanville ISD

michelle
Daniel Intermidate
I also agree with Miranda it is really bad and it is against gods will.

4/8/2014
Jemez Springs, New Mexico

Miranda
Jemez Valley High
I think that is Gay marriage was so bad and they say "Its against god's will" Then how come it isn't in the bible? I mean if you love someone then love them. Who cares if they are the same sex or not. My mom always told me "Follow your heart. Fall in love with who ever. Doesn't matter what they are male or female. As long as they love you too." Why would anyone care. My opinion is that it is beautiful. So all those people who are gay, lesbian, or bisexual. Let it go! Let it show! Be proud of who you are! Don't let anyone hold you back.

3/17/2014
LittleRock/Ar

Kyera
Mrs.Wright/LisaAcademy
Well I think this was a great way to explain Civil Rights issues of today.

3/17/2014
Claremont, CA

Ronnie
Ranney/ Claremont High
honestly i dont understand why society doesnt want to accept that people who are different. it's really upsetting to me that homosexual and trasngendered arent able to enjoy things that people who are hetersexual are to do. theyre denied the right to do things like for example, compete for miss universe or get married, and same sex marriage is really big one right now. i think that everyone should have the right to get married to who they want to regaurdless of gender. I'm so happy that some parts of the US are actually legalizing same sex marriages. i really hope that our society will make it legal in all parts of the US and like other parts of the world too

3/3/2014
Alabama

Precious
Gargia Wagshton
A good way to lean about our history!

2/28/2014
Savannah ga

Gracie
STEM@bartlett
(don't take anything the wrong way) People have no right to discriminate against people who do something different like gay marriage. They can't help who they are...they can't help what they do! People who discriminate against people are just plain wrong. I belive in god, I belive that it's not exactly right BUT I want people to be who they are, I want them to be proud of it. They don't need to bottle it up. Let who you are shine??

2/28/2014
Savannah

Gaea
Ms. Thornton
I believe that gays should have equality no matter what people say take the show The Fosters for example there are to women who are lesbians and they are discriminated everyday but they know how they feel and no one can take them away from them.

2/28/2014
Savannah

Sarah
Miss Thornton
Discrimination. Based on sexual orientation is wrong. If the laws were pasted for. No gay couples, and you were a gay, you would feel horrible. People have right and people need to respect that. Even though gayness may be against some religions, there is not just one religion in the world

2/27/2014
West Columbia, SC

Lacy
Stevens Henager
I think that everyone should be protected. Why should someones sexual preference be any of your concern? You think that if gays are able to adopt then they will just raise gay children, think again. Most gays come from a heterosexual home. We are all gods children made in his image. That's what I was taught anyways. Think about that for a minute before you discriminate.

2/12/2014
Little Rock ar

Gerardo
mrs. wright lisa west
I think that everyone should have their own right who cares if their gay or not they don't bother anyone and even if it did theres nothing wrong with being gay or lesbian

2/5/2014
Little rock

Aisha
Lisa Academy West
I think Saida is correct. We are all the same and we should be treated with equality as said in popular speeches. We all deserve freedom. So I think gay marriage should be protected.

2/3/2014
Arkansas

saida
Mrs.Wright
I think gay marriage should be protected . I know it might be against some religions , but deep down inside we're all the same .We also deserve to be treated the same .we are all human being gay is not a disease. If you weren't able to love who want to . It makes them feel horrible. What i'm basically trying to say here is that we are all equal and all deserve to be treated equally.

2/3/2014
Arkansas

saida
Mrs.Wright
I think gay marriage should be protected . I know it might be against some religions , but deep down inside we're all the same .We also deserve to be treated the same .we are all human being gay is not a disease. If you weren't able to love who want to . It makes them feel horrible. What i'm basically trying to say here is that we are all equal and all deserve to be treated equally.

2/3/2014
Little Rock/ AR

Nand
Wright/ Lisa West
The us constitution says that Americans have the right to life liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If marriage of your same gender makes people happy, it should be allowed. On the other hand, if murder made you happy, that doesn't mean you can do it because it is illegal. I really dont know what to say about this matter, so these are both sides of the story

2/2/2014
Little Rock Arkansas

COLE
mrs. Wright/Lisa academy west
The Ten Commandments don't actually say that there can't be gay Marriage and nobody actually truly knows what they say.

2/1/2014
Little Rock, AR

Jahnavi
Mrs.Wright/ LISA West
I totally agree with Audrey, Happiness is everything. But not having American origin, I know the country I'm from probably does not allow same-gender marriage in both male and female.About Women's Struggle for Equality, I didn't know women still have to fight for rights! Women deserve the same rights as men, not just in the U.S, but everywhere in the world. Without women, men would be no where.

2/1/2014
Little rock AR

Mir
Lisa west
I dont think gays should be protected. Their actions may be disgusting but it may be against many religions. If a gay family goes to a place to a restraunt with other children in it, it would look bad in front of them. Gays and lesbians would increase which wouldn't be so good, in my opinion, gays should not be protected. This should not happen??

1/31/2014
Chicago/IL

Brandi
Lundgren
Hey! MM, homosexuality is BIOLOGICAL. so if gays where given BACK their right to marry and adopt children, they wouldn't "turn gay" and make the whole world gay. and yes, everything you described is you being homophobic, which is not biological, but a choice. Learn from our ancestors in Little Rock, how the thought African Americans shouldn't have been allowed to integrate in "their" schools and that they would make their children "dirty".

1/30/2014
little rock, Ar

MM
Wright
Marrage allows a person to have more freedom such as, adopting, will, and 'insurace shares'. So if 2 gays became married they would have these right too, including adopting. If two gays adopt a child that child would be raised to be gay also increasing the gay population, personally i wouldnt want to live aruond a lot of gays, one might ending up liking you. I have nothing against gays but I dont one all on me!

1/30/2014
Little Rock

Ryan
Lisa West
some people could be happy blowing things up, but just because they are happy, doesnt mean that the government would allow it. same with gay marriage, its illegal in some places, and it makes people happy, but the government wont stand for that.

1/30/2014
Little Rock

Shahroz
Lisa West
Gays shouldnt get protected. The actions are disgusting. In this world men are suppose to be with woman not their own gender. Probably all religions say that you cant get married to your own gender. Yet they make gay churches and such. This is why I think gays and lesbians should not be protected in any state.

1/30/2014
little rock, AR

Audrey
LISA west
Our constitution says that Americans are able to pursue happiness,so if gay marriage makes them happy, let them have it.

1/29/2014
Little Rock

Ryan
Lisa West
Gays shouldnt get protected. Not only are there actions disgusting, but also unbiblical. in the Ten Commandments, it says that a man shall not lay down with another man, neither shall a woman do the same. they say its okay, and that they were born that way and couldnt change if they tried, but thats a lie. there is biblical proof that says they chose to be that way. not only do we dislike them, but they are also sinners in the eyes of the Lord.

1/27/2014
Tucson/Arizona

Emily Desilets
Mrs. Shafer/Dodge Middle School
Why do we have hatred against things we can't change!? It's not like you can wave a wand and suddenly be what everyone wants you to be. Not just American citizens but people around the world should not have to fight for equalality.

1/16/2014
Chicago

Caleb
Bret Harte
Come on! This is rediculous. How could you degrade someone just as important.

11/19/2013
Anderson, Texas

Amy
Anderson-Shiro High School
It's ridiculous to me that there are still people who hate people because of the way they love. It's 2013. Marriage equality shouldn't be a debate. Anyone should be able to marry who they love, regardless of gender.

10/21/2013
Traverse City, Michigan

Tabby
Grand Traverse Academy
All this Racism is a bunch of bullcrap! This isn't when slaves were working for whites! This is the 21st century. Just forget all about this white is better than black stuff! Everyone is the same! The Framers established that when they created the Amendments. So, everyone just stop with all the racism and make America just a little more better to live in. Please?

10/16/2013
Denver, Colorado

Noah
Grant Beacon Middle School
Honestly people need to grow up, this shouldn't even have to be an issue right now, there are more important things this country should be worried about, like this thing with Syria. Why can't we all just get past the racism and the stereo types, and worry about more important things.

6/3/2013
raliehg nc

william rosario
hgms
we should be equal

5/21/2013
Chicago, IL

Kate
JJH
I believe that if we pride ourselves in building up a country that our forefathers started we should shape our lives by the laws the made. All men are equal. Yet we used the term White Supremacy and we discriminated against people who look different. That's just sick.

5/14/2013
Indianapolis, Indiana

Willy Gross
Mrs. Young / Broad Ripple High School
I think people who were adopted should have access to their biological family's medical records. Why doesn't anyone ever discuss the stereotypes of adopted kids when talking about civil rights? It's time to star this discussion. The rights and dignity of people who were adopted is THE most important civil rights issue of the modern era.

5/13/2013
China Grove, NC

Rachael Javurek
Jesse C Carson HIgh School
Being from the south we are very much unsegregated. That is a stereotype and I resent that comment. A lot of us are very liberal.

5/13/2013
China Grove, NC

Rachael Javurek
Jesse C Carson HIgh School
Being from the south we are very much unsegregated. That is a stereotype and I resent that comment. We are not dip licking hilly billies down here. A lot of us are very liberal.

5/10/2013
Grand Rapids , Michigan

Shardinay White
Union High School
I feel that the southern need more help with the segration . They're still racist down there ..

5/1/2013
Janensville Wisconsin

DILLON BRIGGS
Parker High School
i personally think there should be gay marrige, and i know this because of a personal experience and belief

5/1/2013
Janesville

Connor
Parker
I think us gays should be equal to the straight Americans.

4/29/2013
Janesville WI

Dylan
Parker
In my opinion I thin immigrants shouldnt get the same equal rights. They should not be treated as Americans because they are not Americans..

3/15/2013
lousiana

amber
sonia
whats the most crucial momvment

2/25/2013
Illinois

Jim
Chippewa
I agree people should have the right to do as they please to a certain extent. That extent not being sexual orientation or skin color or even religious views.

Kristine
Southview
Everyone should have the same rights as everyone, African americans should be equal (which they are now) Gays should have the right to marry, etc.

1/14/2013
airville

morgan
home schooled
gay people need to have the same rights as everyone

11/13/2012
Georgia

Anna
Roopville
We have the right to speak our mind but some people are taking it to far and getting in trouble

5/11/2012
Porterville, CA

John
Smith/Monache
We should grant illegal immigrants equal protection under the constitution. They do not wish to harm America; they just wish to integrate with it. They help us by doing all the jobs we don't want to do ourselves, they help stimulate the economy with their earnings, and most of them even pay taxes without expecting welfare in return. Illegal immigrants should not even be considered illegal in the first place, since it is a very demeaning descriptor. We should completely open our borders to any immigrants who wish to come in, or at the very least allow the "illegal" ones here to be granted citizenship through a similar process as the legal ones, where they must pass an immigration test or something equivalent.

10/4/2011
Portland/Oregon

Bridget
Mrs.Tormala/St. Mary's Academy
Today a hot topic in civil rights is the issue of gay marriage. The Equal Protection Clause is supposed to protect against discrimination, but it still occurs today in everyday life. We have a right to marriage and our freedom of expression of what we love and who we love. Our sexual orientation doesn’t make us less intelligent or less of a person. As Martin Luther King Jr. once said we should be judged on “…the content of [our] character.” We discriminate against what we fear and what we are unknowledgeable of. Education is the only way we can turn people away from discrimination.

9/29/2011
Irving/Texas

Joan
Bradley/Nimitz
Even though the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution states that women, gays, and people with disabilities are not to be discriminated against, they are suffering from discrimination that still exist today. I believe that the rights of women should be explained clearly and thoroughly in the Constitution. By that, I mean the federal government should do something about the 19th and other amendments that concern the rights and liberty of women. Women have the ability to do anything men can do. All men and women are created to be equal. People's sexual orientation should be protected wholly by the federal government. It does not matter if a person is gay, lesbian, or bisexual, he still deserves the right to obtain the rights others have. He has the right to marry, to have jobs, and to own lands. People, straight or not, are protected under the Constitution of United States of America. As a deaf person myself, I have noticed numerous of discrimination against people with disabilities today. They are not being treated fairly. They can't find jobs. They don't have equal access to things as compared to people without disabilities. People with disabilities should be mentioned and be protected under the Constitution as well. The Americans with Disabilities Act should be broadened. This law should be implemented and mentioned everywhere. Everyone needs to understand people with disabilities do have the abilities to do as well as normal people can do. To do well in life, all they need is an equal access to everything. Illegal immigrants are illegal, thus, I don't think they should receive the equal protection under the American law. They should first obtain citizenship before being protected by the Equal Protection Clause under the 14th Amendment. I believe that the Constitution protects only American citizens and those with green cards. There are many civil rights issues that need to be confronted today, or else, discrimination will continue to thrive today.